A Birthday to Remember

Our little Buddy turned 8 years old during quarantine! It was a great day and we tried to make Caden's day special even though we had to make some accommodations. 

 Caden woke up to balloons all over his floor.

 Then he went straight for his presents. He got to open a new outfit. For his other presents, we hid them all around the house and he had to go around and find them all.

 Each of the girls picked out a special gift for Caden. Brynnli gave Caden a Mario watch.

 Makayla gave Caden a book, minifigure, and a chocolate Hershey bar.

 From mom and dad he got a new Lego set, some new clothes, a Mario blanket, a stuffed Mario, and a remote control.

 Then we had the greatest surprise when all of our family on Tyler's side came over for a drive by birthday party. They sang Happy Birthday, we ate cookies, and Caden got to open lots of presents from everyone.

 Thanks to Tracy for the drum set... it's a really quiet gift.

 Birthday parties during social distancing.

 Can you tell what we're spelling out? COVID

Grandpa and Grandma Thomas came over later that night and Caden got even more Legos!

 That night Caden got to choose where to get take out from and he chose Red Robin.  If you know Caden, you know that he LOVES cake... more than any other person I know. So we got him his very own cake.

 Then the kids picked to watch a movie and slept downstairs in the tent.

Oh Caden, we hope you had a fun and memorable 8th birthday. We wanted so badly for you to have a "normal" birthday with a friend party and a big family party, but we are so proud of you for understanding that things had to be different this year. I promise, when all this silly corona virus stuff is over, you are going to have the best party.

In honor of Caden's 8th Birthday, here are 8 things we love about Caden:

1. We love so many things about you. We love your peaceful disposition. Even when things are different or when plans change and you are clearly disappointed about it, you still try to find the positive in all situations.
2. You are the sweetest kid. You are always looking out for others and always try to make people feel special.
3. You give the best compliments, and when you give a compliment, you know it is genuine. I love that you are the first person to notice when I paint my nails and you always tell me that I look pretty.
4. You are so smart and try so hard at your schoolwork. I am amazed at how fast you understand math and how you can do a lot of problems in your head.
5. You are such a good example to everyone and you show us all how to never give up, even when things are hard.
6. You are very athletic. Basketball, baseball, soccer, you name it, you can play it... and you are a really fast runner!
7. Your sweet tooth. Basically any treat, you can bet that Caden loves it.
8. You're our little buddy. I know you will be my best little bud forever. I love you so much Caden!